September 3, 2023

Choosing the right paint colors for your home can be both exciting and daunting. The shades you select have the power to transform the atmosphere of your living spaces, reflecting your personal style and enhancing the overall aesthetic.

Before starting on your color journey, take a moment to analyze the natural lighting, size, and purpose of each room. Lighter shades can make small spaces appear larger and airy, while darker hues can lend coziness to larger areas. Consider the room's function as well – relaxing blues for bedrooms, energizing yellows for kitchens, and serene greens for home offices.

Maintaining a consistent color palette throughout your home fosters a sense of unity and flow. Pick a main color that resonates with your style and choose complementary shades for adjacent rooms.  With that being said, you do you!   If you want to have a different colors in each room, go for it!  I just recommend you pick a "tone".  Example, all pastels, dark and moody tones, bright and vibrant colors. OR you can go with different tones within the same color group.  Example, navy with royal blue and an accent of pastel blue.

If you get anything from this, please take this with you forever... never underestimate the power of paint samples. Purchase samples of your chosen color and add a spot on each wall of the room. Observe how the color appears in different lighting conditions throughout the day. Remember, paint can look drastically different on your walls compared to how it appears on a swatch.  One sample type that I live by are the samplize stickers. They are large enough to cut into squares so you can place one on each wall. 

As far as specific colors neutral tones provide a timeless and versatile backdrop that can be easily accented with accessories and furniture. Whites, grays, and beige tones create a serene canvas and allow you to switch up your decor without repainting. Probably best if you're fickle, like me! 

Another thing to remember is colors evoke emotions, so think about the atmosphere you want to create. Calming blues and greens promote relaxation, while vibrant reds and oranges add energy. Earthy tones like browns and taupes offer a grounded and cozy ambiance.  Take a look around for inspiration – art, textiles, and the great outdoors can guide your color choices. Extracting shades from a favorite painting or a picturesque landscape can lend a harmonious and balanced feel to your living spaces. If you're hesitant to commit to bold paint colors, use accessories like throw pillows, rugs, and artwork to infuse pops of color. This allows you to experiment with different shades without the permanent commitment.

As you move from room to room, aim for a seamless transition of colors. Consider how one room will lead into the next and choose colors that complement each other for a unified experience especially if you have open doorways leading into another room. Trim and ceiling colors play a vital role in the overall aesthetic as well. Crisp white trim can highlight architectural details, while a slightly lighter shade than your wall color on the ceiling can add depth and dimension. Don't forget sheen! Traditional eggshell or flat is used on the walls and a flat is used on the ceiling while semi gloss if used on trim, but here is where you can experiment. Adding different sheens will help give you room life and look rich.  Try adding a gloss to the ceiling if you go with a flat on the walls! The reflections will give it a beautiful pop.

In the end, trust your gut feeling. Your home should reflect your personality and preferences. If a color resonates with you and brings joy, it's likely to work well in your space.

Happy Painting! 

elyse